Exercises that move joints such as walking, swimming and cycling are amongst the best options to improve joint flexibility. Stretching exercises keep the joints and muscles supple, reducing stiffness. Getting enough rest plays an important role in relaxing the joints and muscles, thus strengthening them for later rigors. Always remember to wear protective gear like knee and elbow pads when skating or playing tennis.
Omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and Vitamin D help keep joints strong, therefore include green leafy vegetables, dairy products, nuts and fish in your diet. Sit/stand with a good posture and use the largest or the strongest joint when lifting objects. Finally, respect your bodily limitations and don’t over- exercise.
Home Remedies
Warm water baths that focus on the affected joints, oil massages with Eucalyptus/Olive oil, consuming lukewarm milk mixed with one tbsp of turmeric, and drinking enough fluids like carrot juice, these are all useful home remedies that do not cost anything but go a long way in relieving joint pain.
Physical Therapy
Techniques such as heat/cold therapy, electrical nerve stimulation as well as massages help in soothing painful joints and stimulating blood flow, while stabilizing and improving the range of motion.
Medications
If the joint pain persists for a week, it is the time to take an appointment with your doctor. The doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs for moderate joint pain.
Creams that contain methyl salicylate cause relief from joint pain due to arthritis. Injections targeting the painful joints might be prescribed for people who do not respond well to medications and creams.
You can also ask the doctor for Glucosamine supplements, since it is one of the compounds present in healthy cartilage that maintain joint mobility.
Wearing braces and shoes that support the painful joints and absorb shocks, form part of the branch of Orthotics and have proven to be very effective in treating pain caused by arthritis.
Alternative Treatments
Techniques like acupuncture can treat osteoarthritis pain. Spa therapy, hydrotherapy and mud baths also relive joint pain by soothing sore muscles.
Surgery
Surgical intervention may be required if there if a disease of the bones, ligaments or cartilage. It is best to consult your doctor in such a case and seek earliest medical help.
Here’s wishing you life’s simplest pleasures like brisk walking, playing with your children and enjoying a sport, without any reminders of joint pain.
